Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associated Dean (Academic),

My name is Jennifer Grinstead, and I am a part-time online student in the BHSc program. I'm writing this petition letter in the hopes that I can successfully obtain a late drop designation on the one course I'm taking this semester— PHGY 215 (Winter 2024)—9because of extenuating circumstances. I am facing significant health challenges that are inhibiting my ability to continue and complete the course at this time. I am registered with QSAS regarding my condition

For background, I am a 63-year-old woman that lives with a rare, chronic, and life-threatening demyelinating neurological condition that primarily affects the optic nerves, the spinal cord, and in some patients like myself, the brain. Recurring relapses over 30 years have left me disabled, including vision loss, and mostly housebound. Treatment typically involves managing inflammation and preventing relapses to minimize the impact on quality of life.

In January of this year, it was confirmed that my disease was advancing, evidenced by MRI findings of a new lesion in my brain. Consequently, a decision was made and approval granted for use of a new drug specifically for my condition. Prior to beginning this treatment, however, I underwent an infusion of another drug on February 15th, an interim treatment to bridge the gap until the new regiment began. The unforeseen side effects necessitated me to defer my February 26th midterm until May. I did not drop the course by the deadline of March 1st, despite a second infusion on February 29th, due to optimism about feeling better soon and I had been informed the new upcoming therapy was thought to be well tolerated.

Since then, I have had loading doses of the new drug April 9th and 23rd, with a third coming up May 7th before transitioning to monthly doses. Unfortunately, I have been left profoundly fatigued, exacerbating the dysfunction in my already compromised body. I find myself incapacitated in daily living, grappling with deteriorating sleep quality that has cascaded into challenges with memory retention and recall, along with a general sense of unwellness. The effects may be complicated by disease progression. Under these circumstances, I am in no condition to study effectively, let alone sit for the upcoming midterm and final exams. My case nurse through the drug manufacturer is aware of my plight, stating that it can take time for the body to adjust to the drug. My medical teams are also aware.

My hope initially was to obtain an incomplete designation for the semester, with the opportunity to write my exams in the fall, as expressed in my April 16th email to my professor, Dr. Chris Ward, but he did not support this option. Despite overcoming the challenges to complete my assignments and obtaining a 98% average to date, I must wholeheartedly express that my current state does not permit me to undertake the rigorous demands of studying or sitting for an exam. On April 22, I spoke with my accessibility advisor, Angel Varrette, who agreed and connected me with Dr. Robert Campbell for guidance in appealing for a late drop. My hope to get through this time, and return in the fall in better health and retake PHGY 215. I have been able to achieve a GPA of 4.04 throughout my academic journey, reflecting my dedication and commitment to learning despite facing significant health challenges.

Thank you for considering this petition. I greatly appreciate your understanding and consideration in the matter.

Best regards,

Jennifer Grinstead
Student ID 20141261